PacificavsCascade

Pacifica (aroma) and Cascade (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Pacifica

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–6%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.9–1.2 mL

New Zealand

Cascade

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4.5–9%

Beta acid

4.8–7.5%

Total oil

0.7–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pacifica

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Cascade

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Pacifica

OrangeMarmaladeHayHoneyTangyZest

Only in Cascade

GrapefruitSpicyPine

Property

PropertyPacificaCascade
Alpha acid5–6%4.5–9%
Beta acid5–6%4.8–7.5%
Co-humulone24–26%30–40%
Total oil0.9–1.2 mL0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene10–15%45–60%
Humulene45–55%8–20%
Caryophyllene14–18%3–9%
Farnesene0–1%3–9%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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